NO MOW May is going blooming marvellously in Warwick district, according to green-minded council chiefs.
The contentious wildlife-boosting scheme has even gained the approval of Welsh ornithologist and nature presenter Iolo Williams, Warwick District Council report.
No Mow May aims to create habitats and provide resources for bees and other early-season pollinators and has returned for a second year this month.
Grass cutting has again been suspended on highway verges and the majority of the district’s parks and open spaces, while residents also have the option to join in and let the grass grow in their own gardens in a bid to help wildlife flourish.
WDC pledged to learn from last year’s No Mow May which divided residents and has provided an update on how the scheme is going.
The council reports that roadsides and local parks are blooming to life with cow parsley, buttercups, dandelions and red campion.
No Mow May has also received the backing of Iolo Williams, Welsh ornithologist and nature broadcaster, who tweeted: “Bravo, Warwick DC. Now let’s see ALL councils follow your lead.”
And one resident reports completely changing her mind about the scheme since last year.
Shirley from Sydenham said: “Last year I complained a lot about No Mow May as dog walking was a nightmare. This year it’s clear that the council has listened, and edges are being cut back. Sydenham is so much better as a result, so thank you to the council for listening.”
WDC’s green spaces spokesperson Coun Will Roberts added: “It’s fantastic to see just how well nature is blooming to life, proving that
No Mow May does indeed have a small but powerful impact for our local biodiversity. I hope that everyone finds the time to look when they’re out and about, to see what species they can see, and just enjoy the changes. And I’m encouraged by the positive comments we’re receiving about the improvements we’ve made to the scheme this year.”
WDC has made changes to No Mow May this year following feedback received from residents in 2023.
Cemeteries, children’s play areas, sports pitches, major parks, and council housing estates have been excluded, and an approximately one metre strip of grass is being mowed at junctions on highway verges to ensure visibility.
Any concerns about areas needing to be mowed for safety can be reported to WDC at www.warwickdc.gov.uk/nomowmay
